Durban University of Technology (DUT) officially launched the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework, comprising five core values: transparency, honesty, integrity, respect and accountability. These values are underpinned by the principles of fairness, professionalism, commitment, compassion and excellence. DUT Marketing, Public Relations and Events Assistant Snethemba Shozi, recently engaged in a conversation with Muziwenhlanhla Zwane, intern in the Information and Communications Technologies Services (ICTS).

Q: Kindly tell me about your role at DUT?

A: “I am currently working as an intern under the Information and Communications Technologies Services (ICTS) unit, focusing mainly on networking. My role involves assisting with network maintenance, supporting staff and students with connectivity issues, and assisting with the installation and repair of access points and other IT infrastructure across campuses.”

Q: How long have you been a member of the DUT family?

A: “I became part of the DUT family in 2020 when I started studying for my Higher Certificate in IT. Since then, I have continued my journey here, completing my Diploma in ICT in Business Analysis in 2024 and now studying towards my Advanced Diploma in Business Administration while also doing my internship.”

Q: Amongst the mentioned ENVISION2030 Living Values and Principles, which one do you mostly associate with and why?

A: “I mostly associate with respect and integrity because I believe that treating others with kindness and honesty builds strong relationships. I always say ‘umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu,’ meaning a person is a person through others. Respect and integrity guide how I work with my team and help others every day.

Q: What are your views on the DUT tagline: Creative, Distinctive, Impactful?

A: “I believe the tagline truly represents what DUT stands for. Being creative means finding smart solutions to challenges; being distinctive shows that DUT stands out for its quality education and innovation; and being impactful means we use our knowledge to make a real difference in our communities.”

Q: How are you planning to keep abreast with the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework?

A: “I plan to live out the values in my daily work by being professional, committed, and always willing to learn. I will continue to follow DUT updates, participate in discussions, and make sure that my actions support the goals of ENVISION2030.”

Q: What is the one thing that most people do not know about you?

A: “Most people don’t know that I’m naturally shy, but when it comes to helping others or working in a team, I open easily because I enjoy being around people and learning from them.”

Q: In your opinion, how will the ENVISION2030 Living Values Framework benefit DUT?

A: “I believe the framework will help DUT grow into an even stronger and more united institution. It encourages fairness, transparency, and accountability, which will improve how we work together and how the university serves students and staff.”

Q: What do you like to do in your spare time?

A: “In my spare time, I enjoy learning new things about technology, spending time with friends, and helping others whenever I can. I also like to reflect and plan my next steps for both my personal and professional growth.”

Q: How do you plan to make a positive impact on DUT?

A: “I plan to make a positive impact by being dedicated to my work, supporting my team, and sharing knowledge with others. I want to contribute to a better learning and working environment through teamwork, honesty, and consistent effort.”

Q: What is your daily motivation?

A: “My biggest motivation is seeing progress  whether it’s helping someone fix a problem, learning something new, or watching others succeed. Knowing that my work and effort make a difference keeps me going every day.”

Q: What are your future goals at DUT?

A: “My goal is to continue growing professionally within the IT field and to use my business administration studies to take on leadership responsibilities in the future. I want to be part of DUT’s ongoing transformation and innovation journey.”

Q: If you were granted one wish, what would it be?

A: “My wish would be to see every student and staff member at DUT succeed in their goals and to see the university continue to grow into one of the leading institutions in Africa through innovation, unity, and excellence.”